Why a Bloke's Lounge?

Meet new pe0ple, make new mates

As the Labrador Men's Shed developed, it became apparent that social isolation remains a big issue among older males at the Gold Coast.

Concerns about the effects of social isolation on men's health and wellbeing will increase with the rapidly aging population. In 2011, Gold Coast City recorded a resident population of 590,810 people; of those 109,384 were aged 60+. By 2031, this is age group is expected to increase by 89 per cent to 206,282.

Older males are often more at risk of social isolation than females, who tend to have a wide circle of friends and acquaintances and actively foster those relationships - when things go awry or their partners die, they have good support networks. Male mateship, however, generally revolves around the workplace and sport or recreation. When they retire they often lose contact with work mates and fitness.

In areas like the Gold Coast, many retirees have shifted into units in multi-storey or studio-type complexes and no longer have their handyman, hobby or outdoor activity area. Fitness and mobility problems often prevent them from playing sport or other physical pursuits. This leaves them vulnerable to loneliness which can lead to depression, anxiety and other mental and physical health issues.

The benefits of social interaction are well known. Bloke's Lounge offers a friendly and welcoming environment where men aged 50+ from all walks of life can get together, make friends, share stories and experiences and get involved in recreational and social activities. We give people options and opportunities to make friends, keep mind and body active and stay healthy.

Bloke's Lounge Inc is an incorporated body with insurance for Lounge activities - and those conducted under our banner - covered under an agreement with Transcord Community Transport Inc.